User Resistance to Information Technology: A Case Study of the Hmong American Partnership

Researchers and practitioners have been aware of problems relating to user resistance to new information technology since the early 1960s. Currently, there is no accepted theory or paradigm encompassing the full range of circumstances associated with an individual user's resistance to information technology. This narrative approach study found that circumstances related to individual differences, political, economic, fear of job loss, previous bad experiences, fear of cultural changes, and technological ease of use and usefulness of a technology may have influenced individuals to either resist or accept a new technology. But, there are indications that the level of influence these factors have on an organization depends upon the size of the organization and the circumstances at the time of the introduction of a new information technology. However, this qualitative approach found that aspects such as user involvement, setting realistic expectations, interpersonal networks, management support, training, and empowerment can help diffuse users' resistance towards information technology.